In Episode 9 of What a Stranger Told Me, Jon pulls up a chair with Lucy and Eliza—two young women whose cowgirl roots run deep, even in the suburbs. This storytelling podcast uncovers honest moments from everyday lives.

Raised on cattle properties across Queensland and New South Wales, they grew up mustering, riding, and breathing wide-open spaces. “It’s not the hat,” they say. “It’s in your blood.”

Now one’s heading to boarding school in Toowoomba, surrounded by country girls just like her. The other’s studying animal care, dreaming of a future in equine vet nursing. But the farm never left them. They ride Western and English—barrel racing, show jumping, gently retraining a mare who once threw everyone off. “Trust takes years,” Lucy shares. “You feel it, the horse feels it.” She’s aiming for nationals after a tough season with hoof issues. Eliza’s stepping into competitive barrel racing this year—three barrels, tight turns, full gallop home.

Motorbikes are part of the mix too, with the twins (one boyfriend, one brother) keeping the country spirit alive on acreage. Tonight? A rare city night out—boots, laughs, maybe a little boot-scooting. Longreach was the plan, but this works just fine.

This episode of What a Stranger Told Me is about belonging, quiet confidence, and the pull of where you’re from. It’s warm, real, and full of heart—proof a quick chat can feel like coming home. Join Jon to hear their story, a gentle reminder every stranger has roots worth knowing.

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Made & Hosted by Tim Reid & Jon Coghill
Music Supervision by Dennis Feletto
Photography by Will Reid & Andy McColl

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